England international David Ribbans could sensationally become a Springbok in time for the next Rugby World Cup, with the towering lock now fully eligible to represent the country of his birth.
The 30-year-old last featured for England at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, and with the three-year stand-down rule ticking away, Ribbans will soon be free to pull on the green and gold if he chooses.
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“It would feel strange” – Ribbans breaks silence on possible switch
Ribbans has addressed the speculation directly, admitting the Springbok question has followed him ever since he moved to Toulon — but he remains conflicted.
The former Northampton Saints star said he wouldn’t rule out representing South Africa one day but insisted it doesn’t sit entirely comfortably:
“You never say never… but I find it a bit strange when players play for two countries.”
He also suggested a switch could feel disrespectful to England after earning 11 caps:
“I’d put aside the potential glory because it wouldn’t be right towards England.”
Despite that, the door remains firmly open — and Ribbans knows it.
Springboks watching as Etzebeth shows signs of slowing down
If Ribbans ever wanted to join South Africa’s lock ranks, timing might be on his side.
Eben Etzebeth, long considered the world’s premier second-row enforcer, has recently shown the first hints of fading powers. Concussion concerns, recurring knocks and longer recovery windows have begun to raise eyebrows among Springbok supporters.
Etzebeth, now 34 and with a decade of Test rugby behind him, has bravely fought his way back to fitness — but even he admits the miles on the clock are starting to count:
“As you get older, injuries take a bigger toll.”
With the Springboks potentially needing fresh muscle in the engine room over the next World Cup cycle, Ribbans — powerful, mobile and thriving in the Top 14 — suddenly looks like a very real option.
EDITORS PICKS:
2027 Rugby World Cup draw:
Predicted based on current rankings:
South Africa (Band 1)
Reigning giants of world rugby. Dominant set-piece, immense defence, and ruthless efficiency.
Australia (Band 2)
A proud rugby nation rebuilding with speed and energy. Dangerous even when inconsistent.
Japan (Band 3)
Fast, inventive, and fearless. Known for quick ball movement and tactical cleverness.
Tonga (Band 4)
Explosive and physical. Can trouble any side when their offloading game clicks.
Summary:
A bruising pool where South Africa and Australia enter as favourites, but Japan’s pace and Tonga’s power guarantee unpredictability. This could have a genuine upset or two.
New Zealand (Band 1)
The All Blacks — unmatched flair, speed, and rugby IQ. Always title contenders.
Fiji (Band 2)
Electric footwork, immense power, and natural creativity. A nightmare matchup for any defence.
Spain (Band 3)
An improving side full of flair. Known for adventurous attacking rugby.
Portugal (Band 4)
Rapidly rising European underdogs with surprising resilience and strong fundamentals.
Summary:
New Zealand will be heavily favoured, but Fiji vs Spain could be one of the most entertaining games of the pool stage. Portugal are capable of troubling anyone.
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